Mumbai: Vyjayanthi Films, the production house behind Kalki 2898 AD, has officially announced that Deepika Padukone will not be part of the film’s upcoming sequel. In a statement posted on X, the makers wrote:
“This is to officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of #Kalki2898AD. After careful consideration, we have decided to part ways. Despite the long journey of making the first film, we were unable to find a partnership. And a film like @Kalki2898AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works.”
The confirmation came amid swirling media reports that the actress sought a substantial fee hike and certain contractual conditions, believing her role to be indispensable after she shot portions during the first film’s production. Sources suggest the producers, while incurring extra costs, opted to safeguard the film’s larger creative vision over negotiations.
This is Padukone’s second high-profile exit in recent times. Earlier, she walked out of director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, reportedly due to disagreements over remuneration and profit-sharing clauses. Following that decision, Vanga posted a strongly worded note about “breach of trust” and introduced Triptii Dimri as her replacement.
The development comes during a transitional phase for the actress, with her skincare brand facing challenges and her husband, Ranveer Singh, experiencing a string of professional setbacks.
For Kalki 2898 AD, one of India’s most ambitious cinematic universes, the sequel now enters a crucial stage of recasting. Industry observers note that while A-list stars retain immense influence, production houses are increasingly asserting control, prioritizing consistency and commitment over star power alone.
The move underscores a shifting dynamic in Bollywood: a willingness by studios to challenge established norms and place long-term franchise-building above individual celebrity clout.
